Tips for Managing ITP

Taking back control from ITP starts with setting clear treatment goals with your doctor

Consider discussing the following treatment goals:

 

  • Establishing a target platelet count
  • Getting platelets to your target count and maintaining them over time
  • Managing ITP symptoms so you can keep up with the daily activities that are important to you
  • Choosing the treatment that best suits your needs and lifestyle

Planning ahead: Tips on daily life with ITP

ITP can be challenging. Nevertheless, with the help of the right treatment and a healthy lifestyle, it can be manageable. Here are some tips on how to take care of yourself, in addition to your treatment for persistent or chronic ITP.

Life with ITP can sometimes be emotionally difficult. It is important to reach out for support when you need it.

 

Tips for taking care of yourself

  • Identify your circle of support. Talk to friends and family when you need to. Be open and honest about the challenges of living with ITP
  • Ask extended family and friends for help, such as: Driving to and from doctor appointments, looking after your children to give you an evening to yourself, etc
  • Find things that you love to do and make time for them. Even small things can help
  • Develop your skills and talents that are not limited by ITP, such as cooking, learning a new language, gardening, or painting. There are plenty of things you can do while managing low platelet counts
  • If possible, spend time with other people who have ITP or even other chronic illnesses. A supportive community can go a long way

If all else fails and you’re still feeling down, reach out to a therapist for help. You are not in this alone.

Useful Links for ITP Help

A helpful resource for ITP education, advocacy, research, and support, the PDSA website can help you find ITP experts or hematology centers of excellence near you

     

    Helping to ensure that all women with blood disorders are correctly diagnosed and treated at every stage of life

     

    Furthering the understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of certain blood and bone disorders through educational resources, tools, and tips

     

    NHLBI promotes the prevention and treatment of heart, lung, and blood diseases

     

    Providing a unified voice for those with rare diseases and their caregivers, seeking to help them so they won’t have to fight their battle alone

     

    You can also sign up for the PROMACTA® (eltrombopag) Patient Support Program here.